Healthy, strong nails are an essential part of looking and feeling your best. However, many women and men find it difficult to maintain natural nails that do not consistently break or split. The key to optimal nail growth starts with a balanced diet that includes a wide array of vital nutrients such as vitamins A and B and calcium, and herbal supplements that contain essential fatty acids and minerals that maintain the structural integrity fingernails need to grow long and lustrous.
Horsetail
The herb horsetail contains high levels of silicon, a constituent that helps the body absorb calcium and therefore strengthen fingernails, states CareFair.com. Purchase dried horsetail stems from online herbal retailers or from a local health food store. Prepare horsetail tea by adding approximately 3/4 tsp. of dried horsetail stems to one full teapot of boiling water (about 2 cups). Boil for five minutes and remove from heat. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes and strain through cheesecloth. Let cool slightly and drink the tea throughout the day, between meals. Add honey, if desired.
Make a horsetail nail soak to strengthen nails. Place 1 tsp. chopped horsetail stems in a shallow ceramic dish. Add 1/2 cup boiling water over the stems and let sit for 30 minutes. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and discard stems. Pour liquid into a glass jar with a screw-top lid. Add 1 tsp. honey and stir thoroughly. Secure lid and place in a cool, dark place for three days. Use a clean nail brush or small cotton swab to apply the solution to nails. Let dry completely and do not wash off. Repeat one to two times per day for 14 days.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed contains omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids that the body cannot produce on its own. The omega-3 fatty acids moisturize brittle, dry nails and prevent them from splitting and cracking. Take 1 tbsp. of flaxseed every day with breakfast. Purchase whole flaxseed from the grocery store and add it to oatmeal, fruit smoothies or yogurt. Do not eat whole flaxseed if you have digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease. Instead, grind them in a coffee grinder or blender until smooth, or purchase flax meal to add to breakfast foods. Flaxseed can also be used to make baked goods, such as homemade breads and muffins.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil contains the fatty acids linoleic acid and gamma-linoleic acid that moisturize nails and prevents them from splitting and cracking. Purchase evening primrose oil soft gels or extract from health food stores or online herbal retailers. Take 1,000mg of evening primrose oil three times daily for nail growth.
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